Downy Aster Symphyotrichum ericoides

Heath aster is a perennial in the Asteraceae (daisy) family native to North America.  The genus name Symphyotrichum comes from the Greek word "symph" which means come together and "trich" or hair in reference to the hairy looking flower anthers.  The speices ericoides refers to this plants resemblece to a plant from the Erica or heather genus.  Specific epithet means resembling the family Ericaceae (heather).In its native habitat is found growing in dry thickets, roadsides, clearings, and fields.  It grows to a height of  18 inches to 3 feet tall and 1 foot to 18 inches wide depending on wind and the dryness of growing conditions.

Plant in the full sun with medium to dry well-drained soils.  It tolerates a wide range of soils including shallow and rocky, heavy clay, and poor soils.  Once established it is tolerant of drought and deer browsing.   This species is resistant to mildew.  Cut back hard in the early spring to improve appearance. 

The profuse showy white daisy-like flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies nd provide much needed late season nectar as they bloom from late summer to mid fall.  It is effective for erosion mitigation in sloped areas.  Use it in the front of a border in a cut flower, rock, or wildflower garden, or let this plant naturalize but be sure to provide plenty of room.

Fire Risk: This plant has a medium flammability rating. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No serious problems.  Tall plants may need staking.